PM Ramgoolam states that 611 new firearm licences were issued since 2021

The Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister of Finance, Minister for Rodrigues and Outer Islands, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, informed the National Assembly, yesterday, that 611 new firearm licences were issued and 4,264 licences were renewed between 1st January 2021 and 25 June 2026.

Replying to a Parliamentary Question, the Prime Minister, citing information provided by the Commissioner of Police, stated that eight firearm licences were revoked during the period under review, while no licences were suspended.

The Head of Government further indicated that four firearms were reported lost, 14 were reported stolen, and 10 were classified as unaccounted for. In addition, 32 incidents involving licensed firearms resulted in injuries or fatalities, with criminal investigations initiated in each case.

Regarding the eligibility criteria for the grant of a firearm licence, Dr Ramgoolam stated that, pursuant to sections 7 and 8 of the Firearms Act 2006, applicants are required to hold a valid Competency Certificate issued by the Commissioner of Police following the successful completion of the prescribed training and required tests.

Applicants must also be at least 18 years of age, be citizens of Mauritius, be fit and proper persons to possess or deal in firearms, be physically fit and of stable mental condition, and not be dependent on intoxicating or narcotic substances, stated Dr Ramgoolam.

Furthermore, applicants must not have been convicted under the Firearms Act or of offences involving firearms, domestic violence or dangerous drugs, whether in Mauritius or abroad. They must not pose a risk to public safety or public order, must demonstrate a good reason for possessing a firearm, and must have adequate and secure storage arrangements for the safe custody of firearms and ammunition.

According to the Prime Minister, under section 12 of the Firearms Act 2006, firearm licences are renewable annually until 31st December, unless previously suspended or cancelled. PM Ramgoolam explained that renewal is subject to an application by the licence holder, the production of the firearm, any ammunition covered by the licence, the firearm licence book and a valid Competency Certificate. Renewal is granted upon compliance with the statutory requirements.

01 July 2026

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Topics: National Assembly, Defence and Home Affairs